What to Include in an Emergency Car Kit

Driving is inherently dangerous, so we attend a driving school and spend months learning how to drive. We learn to follow driving laws, how to avoid accidents and basic techniques. One thing that isn’t taught in driving school is what to include in an emergency car kit.

Knowing what to put in an emergency car kit can help us remain prepared for common issues people come across while driving.

What is a Roadside Emergency Kit?

Knowing what to put in an emergency car kit can help us remain prepared for common issues people come across while driving. Driving takes us away from our homes and allows us to get things done. We use driving for commutes, errands, and travel.

However, cars are not perfect; things could happen that stop us in our tracks. Those things can include flat tires, overheating vehicles, etc. The safest thing to do is pull over to the side of the road, a safe distance from traffic.

Then, it is time to start figuring out the situation. Unfortunately, these things don’t always happen right in front of an auto shop, so we’re on our own for a bit. That is what the emergency car kit is for. This kit is meant to ensure you have everything you need to remain safe while you’re on the side of the road trying to fix your situation.

What to Include in an Emergency Car Kit Close Up of a Steering Wheel in a Car

What to Include in an Emergency Car Kit

We can easily find pre-made car kits; there’s nothing wrong with that. However, not every kit has everything you may need. We can supplement these kits or start from scratch and build our own. Either way, these are the things that should be present in your kit:

Roadside Flares

Work Gloves or Latex Gloves

Jumper Cables

Brake Fluid

A First-Aid Kit

Two Quarts of Oil

One Gallon of Antifreeze

Extra Fuses

A Blanket

Flashlights and Batteries

A Flat Head Screwdriver

Vise Groups

Pliers

Tire Pressure gauge

Duct Tape

Wrench

Some Rags

Paper Towels

Washer Fluid

Pocketknife

Bottled Water

Granola Bars

What to Include in an Emergency Car Kit a Dog With a Leg and Head Sticking Out From a Car Window

How Often Should I Replace My Car Kit

One thing is certain: not everything will be 100% necessary for your car kit, depending on the model and year of your car. However, this list is a good one to inspire what may be needed. Some things in this kit may expire. It is important to stay up-to-date on your items.

We don’t need to update the car kit every week. However, we should check it every six months. Toss out any expired items like food and replace them. This is what to include in an emergency car kit and how to take care of your kit. Hopefully, this is the one car accessory you will never need to use.